WHERE DREAMS HAPPEN

Rod Hutchins

Rod was born and raised in Ogden, Utah. He has been involved in many organizations and service opportunities throughout his life. In his mid-30's, he contracted the Guillan Barre Virus that would leave him temporarily paralyzed from the neck down for a few months. At that time, 23 years ago, he first set the goal, to complete a full Iron Man course in Kona, Hawaii. He would experience the Guillan Barre Virus two more times throughout his life leaving lasting results and life-long health problems. He is no stranger to overcoming hardship. ​Since his original paralysis, he has endured a total of 21 surgeries and procedures. Most recently in 2014, he had 9 surgeries in 9 months to include, dual hipreplacements, dual knee scopes, one knee replacement, hiatal hernia repair, nissan surgery and several other procedures. A 10th surgery was done to install a spinal stimulator helping him to manage the pain from two deteriorated disks and a pinched sciatic nerve. The stimulator will help Rod endure the grueling task of completing the Iron Man course in Kona, Hawaii which consists of swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112 miles and running 26.2 miles. During the surgeries, Rod had near death experiences bringing him closer to God and helping him to realize his true mission in life. His goal is to inspire others by overcoming life's difficulties with a positive attitude and a plan of action. With the help of many people who have inspired him over the years and what is ultimately taking him to Hawaii to cross the finish line, is his Iron Dream Team. He knows the difficulties of accomplishing such a feat and is determined and dedicated to making this dream a reality. ​